Dortmund considering sale of Justin Lerma after further complications

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Bulinews

·14 September 2026

Since joining from Independente in the summer, life at Borussia Dortmund hasn't exactly been plain sailing for Justin Lerma.

Now reported by Ruhr Nachrichten, Lerma “is currently not allowed to play for reserve team” in the Regionalliga West.

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It's understood this is "due to labour law regulations" which therefore means his chances of playing are very limited as it stands.

The 18-year-old also failed to establish himself during pre-season, with head coach Niko Kovač cited physical deficiencies as an issue.

According to the regional newspaper, there are "initial considerations" to potentially sell the Ecuadorian U-20 international this winter.

First, however, Lerma needs to recover from his acute muscle injury. After that, his further development steps need to be clarified.